19-year-old Jasmine Daunakamakama has created history as the first ever female boxer from Fiji to participate in an Olympic qualifying event.
The Lomanikoro, Bau, Tailevu native, with maternal links to Samoa, Jasmine draws inspiration from her mother, who was involved in boxing while growing up in New Zealand.
“My mum and her siblings used to participate in national competitions, and I would see their trophies back at their family home in New Zealand,” she explained.
With the support and encouragement of her family, Jasmine is determined to secure a spot on the Olympic team and fulfill her dream of competing in Paris.
Currently taking a break from her studies to focus on training, Jasmine is working diligently with her coach to gain as much experience as possible from this opportunity.
“I have my personal goal which is to win a spot to the Olympics. My parents have always encouraged me to aim high and believe in myself and my abilities.”
Daunakamakama will be competing in the 57 kg weight category and is intensively preparing to face more experienced and technically proficient fighters at the qualifiers.
“At the moment I am working on perfecting my technique as well as being a more aggressive fighter,” she added.
Daunakamakama will be competing in the qualifiers scheduled to take place in Bangkok, Thailand from May 23rd to June 3rd, 2024.
